Customer Spotlight: Kashima Hospital | Classico
About the Institution
Kashima Hospital, located in Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture, was established in 1981 by ten local doctors. It is a community-focused medical institution offering services from preventative to home care, guided by the philosophy of practicing community and holistic medicine.
As a cooperative facility with Fukushima Medical University, which established the Department of Community and Family Medicine (ComFaM), the hospital is committed to training general practitioners. To date, the hospital has accepted more than ten resident doctors, providing an environment where staff from various professions study together daily. In cooperation with other hospitals in the prefecture, the hospital aims to provide medical care more closely aligned with the local community.
A Conversation with Kashima Hospital Director, Dr. Atsushi Ishii
I have been a community and family medicine professor since Fukushima Medical University opened the Community and Family Medicine Course in 2006. As a member of ComFaM, I provide medical care and education every day. The idea to introduce new lab coats and scrubs first came up when we decided to create a uniform with the course logo for our members.We asked course members to submit logo designs, and my proposal was selected. I used PowerPoint to finish the design by hand-drawing lines and adding shapes. I will never forget the date: March 10, 2011. We were all excited to meet to discuss building a new facility in Futaba Town, located in the Hamadori area of Fukushima Prefecture. The earthquake occurred the day after we finally completed the logo while staying at an inn.I'm very attached to this logo and happy to see it used this way.The base is shaped like Fukushima Prefecture, with a design representing ComFaM on top. A family is in the community, and their hands are raised to represent looking up and rising. The entire "C" looks like a smiley face.We also paid particular attention to the colors: the light pink base represents the famous peaches and waterfall cherry blossoms. In contrast, the green letters and blue family represent the lush trees and rivers of Fukushima's nature. The embroidery faithfully reproduced the logo's shape and color, and we are happy with the finished product.
We wanted to connect everyone with this logo. When we put on the uniforms, seeing the logo that represents the medical care we envision brought a sense of joy and excitement. We also took a commemorative photo; wearing something nice is fun and makes your heart leap. It also strengthened our spirit and resolve to continue our work.
I chose the Classico lab coat after a recommendation from another doctor. It's easy to move in, but it also has a moderate tightness, which is good. Comfort alone isn't enough; I want it to feel different from when I'm relaxing at home. As someone involved in general medicine, I wear this lab coat to reaffirm my commitment to my patients and medical care. I wear it to motivate myself and say, "I'm going to do my best today!"
It is said that doctors look 30 percent better in lab coats, but that depends entirely on the quality of the coat. Wearing something that makes you look good is essential when switching from your personal life to your work life. When you wear it, its fit looks elegant and improves your mood. It also reminds you to be mindful of your posture, which puts you in a good mood.
Functionally, it's relatively close-fitting, but it's designed to store necessities like a PHS and some stationery neatly.
In our community medicine efforts, there are times when a traditional doctor-like sense of dignity is essential. Still, we also value a familiar atmosphere that encourages patients to consult us. Our sophisticated yet straightforward uniforms and logo will give people an opportunity to get to know general practitioners.
Kashima Hospital aims not just to function as a medical institution but also as a necessary lifeline for the community. Iwaki City has a low number of practicing doctors and a rapidly aging population. That's why I'm determined to do everything I can at this hospital.
For example, the ambulance acceptance rate has increased significantly, and a sense of unity has emerged that we can be proud of. About 30 ComFaM members are active throughout the prefecture, so we would like to use the uniform to appeal to more members.
Featured Team Products
The team at Kashima Hospital chose products from several of our collections.
Classico Tailored Coat Collection Items
This lab coat is part of Classico's foundational collection, representing the brand's standard for premium quality. It is meticulously crafted from "Cremel Supima," a classic, original fabric known for its luxurious feel, beautiful color, and high durability. The design features a neat, tailored silhouette that provides a dignified, professional appearance.
Deo Collection Items
A collection defined by its high-performance deodorant finishing. This series is designed to support healthcare professionals by providing a highly persistent deodorizing function (over 94%). The scrubs are crafted from a lightweight, wrinkle-resistant original fabric that blends cotton and polyester for a soft texture and a beautiful luster.
Lightweight Flared Coat Collection Items
This collection is defined by its exceptionally light feel. It is crafted from an original Classico material that uses hollow yarn, making it easy to move in while retaining a soft, luxurious texture. The series focuses on providing comfort without sacrificing a polished, elegant silhouette.
Nude Fit Doctor Coat Collection Items
Women's Lab Coat (discontinued)
Stand Collar Doctor Coat Collection Items
Men's Lab Coat (discontinued)
